The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Super Eagles captain and head coach, Christian Chukwu.
Okay.ng reports that Chukwu, fondly known as “Chairman,” died on Saturday morning.
The legendary defender captained the Super Eagles (then Green Eagles) to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title on home soil in 1980, where he was also named Player of the Tournament. He was also part of the Nigerian squad that secured bronze medals at the 1976 and 1978 AFCON editions.
Reacting to the sad news, NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, hailed Chukwu as a symbol of strength and leadership.
“We have lost a good and great man. Chukwu was the definition of a strong, dedicated and disciplined leader on and off the field. He was not nicknamed ‘Chairman’ for nothing. He embodied strength, vision and consistency,” Sanusi said.
“We pray that the Almighty will grant his soul eternal rest, and also grant the family and friends he has left behind, and Nigeria football’s fraternity the fortitude to bear this big loss.”
Christian Chukwu also had an illustrious coaching career. He previously managed Kenya’s national team, the Harambee Stars, and later served as head coach of the Super Eagles from 2002 to 2005, leading the team to a third-place finish at the 2004 AFCON in Tunisia.
The former Rangers International of Enugu star was widely respected for his footballing intellect, tactical discipline, and immense contribution to Nigerian sports development.
